A family dispute over the estate of former Nyeri Governor Nderitu Gachagua has taken a new turn, with his widow and children appealing to President William Ruto to intervene. The family, led by Margaret Nyokabi Nderitu and her four children, says they have suffered for years due to what they believe is a doctored will.
They claim that a brother of the late governor used the document, together with alleged political connections, to disinherit them and take control of family assets. According to the family, this has led to prolonged disputes and financial hardship since Gachagua’s death in 2017.
The matter has now been raised again through a formal appeal sent to the President via the Attorney General. In the letter, the family calls for a thorough and independent investigation into the will, which they argue does not reflect the true wishes of the deceased. They say the document has been used to justify the transfer of property and funds in ways that unfairly excluded them.
A key issue raised in the appeal concerns the condition of Gachagua in his final days. His daughter, Suzan Nderitu Gachagua, who was with him in hospital in London, stated that his health had declined severely. She said he could not see, write, or understand legal documents at the time the will is believed to have been made.
“His condition had catastrophically deteriorated to the extent that he was unable to see, let alone write or comprehend any legal document. Thus, the purported will is diametrically inconsistent with medical reality, witness accounts, and the physical condition of Hon. James Nderitu Gachagua at the time,” the letter reads.
The family further claims that intimidation and manipulation were used to enforce the will, leading to the transfer of key assets such as Olive Gardens and Vipingo Beach Resort. They argue that these actions amount to fraud and unlawful interference with the estate.
In their appeal, they are asking for protection from further intimidation, the recovery of assets they say were irregularly transferred, and a fair process to determine the truth.
They maintain that justice has delayed for too long and are now looking to the government for help in resolving the matter.
Gachagua, who served Mathira Constituency for two terms after entering politics in 2003, died of cancer and was buried at his home in Mathira, Nyeri County.